Key Takeaways
• Southwest ends open seating and two free checked bags starting May 28, 2025.
• Introduces four new fare bundles, including restrictive Basic fare with baggage fees.
• Assigned seating tickets sell August 2025; flights with assigned seats start January 2026.
Southwest Airlines Announces Historic Overhaul: End of Open Seating and Free Bags
Southwest Airlines, long known for its unique approach to air travel, is making some of the biggest changes in its history. As of May 28, 2025, the airline is officially retiring its old branding and operational model. This means the end of open seating and the popular policy of two free checked bags for most fares. These changes will affect millions of travelers in the United States 🇺🇸 and beyond, marking a new era for the airline and its customers.
What’s Changing and When?
Who: Southwest Airlines
What: Ending open seating, introducing new fare bundles, changing checked bag policy
When: Major changes start May 28, 2025, with more updates through 2026
Where: All Southwest Airlines flights
Why: To modernize operations, improve profits, and respond to investor pressure
How: By rolling out new fare types, assigned seating, and updated policies
Let’s break down what these changes mean for travelers, employees, and the airline industry as a whole.
Key Dates and Immediate Changes
May 28, 2025:
– New “Basic” fare replaces “Wanna Get Away” fares
– End of automatic two free checked bags for most fares
– Flight credits issued on or after this date will now expire (6–12 months, depending on fare class)
August 2025 (expected):
– Assigned seating tickets go on sale
January 2026 (expected):
– Flights with assigned seating begin operating
Fare Structure Overhaul: What Are the New Options?
Southwest Airlines is introducing four new fare bundles. Each bundle comes with its own set of perks and restrictions. Here’s what you need to know:
- Choice Extra:
- Most perks
- Two free checked bags
- Extra legroom
- Early boarding
- Free internet
- Choice Preferred:
- Preferred seating
- Early general boarding
- Choice:
- Standard seat selection
- Basic:
- Most restrictive
- Assigned seats at check-in
- Checked bag fees apply
- Non-refundable and non-changeable (except for the 24-hour cancellation window)
The new Basic fare is designed to replace the old “Wanna Get Away” fare. It’s the cheapest option, but it comes with the most restrictions. According to analysis by VisaVerge.com, this move is expected to increase revenue from extra fees but may upset some loyal customers who valued Southwest’s previous flexibility.
Checked Bag Policy: No More Free Bags for Most
For decades, Southwest Airlines stood out by letting passengers check two bags for free. That’s changing for most fares booked on or after May 28, 2025. Here’s how the new policy works:
- Checked bag fees will apply to Basic, Wanna Get Away Plus®, and Anytime fares.
- Only Business Select and Choice Extra fares will continue to include two free checked bags.
- Active-duty military and Rapid Rewards members will still get some checked bag benefits.
This change brings Southwest Airlines in line with other major airlines, which have long charged for checked bags on lower-priced tickets. The airline says this update is necessary to stay competitive and profitable.
The End of Open Seating: Assigned Seats Are Coming
One of Southwest’s most famous features has been its open seating policy. Passengers could pick any open seat when they boarded, leading to a unique boarding process. That’s coming to an end.
- Assigned seating will be available for purchase starting in August 2025 for flights departing in 2026.
- Open seating will be phased out as assigned seating becomes the standard.
This change is meant to give travelers more choice and reduce the stress of boarding. However, many longtime customers are sad to see open seating go, as it was a big part of the Southwest Airlines experience.
Flight Credits: New Expiration Rules
If you get a flight credit from a ticket purchased or changed on or after May 28, 2025, that credit will now expire in 6 to 12 months, depending on your fare class. Credits from tickets bought before May 28, 2025, will not expire.
This is a big shift from Southwest’s previous policy, where flight credits never expired. Travelers will need to keep a closer eye on their credits to avoid losing them.
Other Operational Changes
Southwest Airlines is also making several other updates to improve the travel experience:
- Premium seating options and extra-legroom seats will be available starting May 1, 2025.
- Cabin interiors are being upgraded with new seats, refreshed uniforms for staff, and better digital tools for self-service.
- Faster WiFi and in-seat power ports are being added to new and retrofitted planes.
These changes are part of a larger effort to modernize the airline and attract new customers.
Why Is Southwest Airlines Making These Changes?
The airline industry has changed a lot in recent years. Southwest Airlines has faced financial pressure, including a reported net loss of $149 million in the second quarter of 2025. Unit revenue is expected to drop by as much as 4% compared to the previous year.
Southwest is also cutting flights for the second half of 2025, following similar moves by United and Delta. These cuts are due to economic uncertainty and changing booking trends.
Bob Jordan, CEO of Southwest Airlines, has defended the new plan, saying it’s needed to keep the airline modern and profitable. Tony Roach, Executive Vice President of Consumer and Brand, explained, “With new choices like seat selection and Extra Legroom, our enhanced fare bundles let Customers customize their trip while still enjoying our industry-leading reliability and hospitality.”
However, not everyone is happy. Elliott Investment Management, an activist investor group, is pushing for even bigger changes, including a complete overhaul of Southwest’s board. They argue that management has made mistakes and that more aggressive changes are needed.
What Does This Mean for Travelers?
Loss of Free Bags and Open Seating
For many travelers, the loss of two free checked bags and open seating is disappointing. These features made Southwest Airlines a favorite for families, budget travelers, and anyone who wanted a simple, no-surprises flying experience.
Now, travelers will need to pay more attention to which fare they buy. The Basic fare is the cheapest, but it comes with the most restrictions, including fees for checked bags and no ability to change or refund tickets (except within 24 hours of booking).
More Choices, More Fees
The new fare bundles give travelers more options, but they also introduce more fees. If you want extra legroom, early boarding, or free checked bags, you’ll need to pay for a higher fare.
Loyalty program members and credit card holders will get some extra perks, like seat selection and free checked bags, to encourage them to stick with Southwest Airlines.
Flight Credits: Use Them or Lose Them
With flight credits now expiring, travelers need to keep track of when they received their credits and make sure to use them before they expire.
What About Group and Corporate Travel?
- Group bookings will still get two free checked bags until at least January 2026.
- There are no immediate changes to the group booking process.
- Corporate agreements (like those with the University of California) are being updated to match the new fare structure. Companies are being advised to avoid the most restrictive Basic fares for business travel.
What’s Changing for Employees?
Southwest Airlines employees will see changes too. The brand update includes new uniforms and redesigned cabin interiors. These changes are meant to reflect a more modern and competitive airline culture.
How Are Customers and Experts Reacting?
Many loyal Southwest Airlines customers have shared their disappointment on social media, especially about losing free checked bags and open seating. Some say these changes make Southwest just like every other airline.
Industry experts believe these changes are necessary for Southwest Airlines to stay profitable and competitive. However, they warn that the airline could lose some of its unique appeal and loyal customers.
Activist investors, like Elliott Management, are not satisfied with the current changes and are pushing for even more dramatic leadership and policy shifts.
Historical Context: Why These Changes Matter
Southwest Airlines built its reputation as a low-cost, customer-friendly airline. Open seating and free checked bags were key parts of its brand. These policies helped Southwest stand out from other airlines and build a loyal customer base.
But as the airline industry has changed, Southwest has faced new challenges. Financial pressures, changing customer expectations, and demands from investors have forced the airline to rethink its approach.
What Should Travelers Do Now?
If you’re planning to fly with Southwest Airlines, here are some steps you can take:
- Book before May 27, 2025:
- Lock in two free checked bags and avoid the new restrictions.
- Review fare options:
- Understand the new fare bundles and pick the one that fits your needs.
- Watch your flight credits:
- Be aware of the new expiration rules for credits issued after May 28, 2025.
- Check for assigned seating:
- Starting August 2025, you can buy assigned seats for flights in 2026.
- Join the loyalty program:
- Consider enrolling or upgrading your status to keep getting perks like free checked bags and seat selection.
For more details on Southwest Airlines’ new policies, you can visit their official customer enhancements page.
What’s Next for Southwest Airlines?
- Assigned seating and premium options will be fully rolled out by early 2026.
- The airline will keep refining its fares and policies based on customer feedback.
- There may be more leadership changes if activist investors get their way.
- Southwest Airlines will continue investing in digital tools, better inflight amenities, and new international partnerships.
Implications for Immigration and International Travelers
For immigrants and international travelers, these changes mean it’s more important than ever to check the details of your fare before booking. If you’re traveling with extra luggage, you’ll need to budget for checked bag fees unless you choose a higher fare or qualify for special benefits.
If you’re flying to or from the United States 🇺🇸 and connecting with Southwest Airlines, make sure to review your fare type and baggage allowance. This is especially important for newcomers who may not be familiar with the new policies.
Travelers who rely on Southwest’s flexibility, such as those moving for work, study, or family reasons, should pay close attention to the new rules about flight credits and fare restrictions. The Basic fare, while cheaper, may not offer the flexibility needed for changing travel plans.
Where to Get More Information
- Southwest Airlines Official Website: southwest.com
- Customer Enhancements and Policy Updates: southwest.com/customer-enhancements/
- Investor Relations and News Releases: southwestairlinesinvestorrelations.com/news-and-events/news-releases/
- Customer Service: 1-800-I-FLY-SWA (1-800-435-9792)
For official information on travel to and from the United States 🇺🇸, including visa and entry requirements, visit the U.S. Department of State’s travel page.
Final Thoughts
Southwest Airlines’ retirement of its old branding and operational model is a major turning point in U.S. aviation. The end of open seating and free checked bags for most fares means travelers will need to adjust how they book and plan their trips. While these changes may help the airline stay competitive and profitable, they also mark the end of an era for many loyal customers.
As the new policies roll out, it’s important for all travelers—especially immigrants, international visitors, and families—to stay informed and make careful choices about their fares and travel plans. By understanding the new fare bundles, checked bag rules, and seating options, you can avoid surprises and make the most of your Southwest Airlines experience.
If you have questions or need help, reach out to Southwest Airlines directly or check their official website for the latest updates. And remember, always check your fare details before booking to make sure you’re getting the best value for your needs.
Learn Today
Open Seating → A boarding policy where passengers choose any open seat upon boarding without assigned seats.
Basic Fare → The least expensive Southwest fare with seat assignment at check-in and checked bag fees.
Checked Bag Fees → Charges passengers pay for checked luggage, previously free for most Southwest fares.
Assigned Seating → Passengers receive pre-assigned seats instead of choosing seats freely during boarding.
Fare Bundles → Grouped travel options with specific benefits and restrictions, such as Choice Extra or Basic.
This Article in a Nutshell
Southwest Airlines is transforming its legacy with new fare bundles, ending free bags and open seating by 2026. Travelers must adapt to fees and assigned seats, marking a significant shift in customer flexibility and airline profit strategy in U.S. aviation history.
— By VisaVerge.com
